WORCESTER, Mass – Renowned behavioral scientist, researcher and author Dr. Kristen Lee (known as Dr. Kris), will be Worcester State University’s commencement speaker for its 147th Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 13, 2023. The ceremony begins promptly at 10 a.m. at the DCU Center in downtown Worcester, Mass.
An award-winning author and Worcester State alumna who writes and advocates for policy change in the mental health space, Dr. Kris is the lead faculty for behavioral science and Faculty-in-Residence at Northeastern University. Her research and teaching interests include individual and organizational well-being and resilience, particularly for marginalized and underserved populations. Her latest book, Worth the Risk: How to Microdose Bravery to Grow Resilience, Connect More, and Offer Yourself to the World, was a nominee for The Next Big Idea Book Club. Her other books include best-seller Mentalligence: A New Psychology of Thinking, Learn What it Takes to be More Agile, Mindful and Connected in Today’s World and RESET: Make the Most of Your Stress, winner of the Next Generation Indie Book Awards Motivational Book of 2015.
Dr. Kris’s work has been featured on National Public Radio, Ted, the Tedx Talk, “The Risk You Must Take,” and CBS Radio. She is the host of “Crackin’ Up: Where Therapy Meets Comedy.” Dr. Kris is a regular contributor for Psychology Today and Thrive Global and a frequent speaker in higher education, medical schools, corporations and societal organizations.
Dr. Kris is known for her advocacy in promoting increased mental health integration in social policies and institutions to facilitate access and improved health outcomes in the United States and around the world. “We’re appreciative to have Dr. Kris join us to provide a message of resilience and hope this commencement season,” stated Barry M. Maloney, president of Worcester State University.
Dr. Kris will be honored with a Doctor of Humane Letters during the May 13 undergraduate commencement ceremony on May 13. Worcester State University will also bestow honorary degrees to the retired legendary Celtics player Bob Cousy and advocate for women in sports, coaching and leadership Ann Ash Zelesky, who graduated from Worcester State in 1973 with a degree in natural sciences.
For additional information including parking, tickets, cap and gown orders, please visit 2023 Undergraduate Commencement website.
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